Governor signs Cacapon project bond certification

October 4, 2012

BERKELEY SPRINGS - West Virginia Governor Earl Ray Tomblin signed papers Wednesday in Morgan County to officially certify the sale of bonds to fund a $23.5 million renovation project at Cacapon Resort State Park. He signed Senate Bill 362 April 9, which authorized a project to renovate not only Cacapon, but also Beech Fork State Park near Barboursville, totaling $52.5 million. But, he said, there is a process to follow, and the sitting governor must sign off on the issuance of bonds on such a project.

"We're making it official," said Tomblin. "Certifying the bond sale allows our development office to go forward with the sale. I had until the end of the year, but I wanted to do it today, so we could start getting down to bids. The sooner we start, the quicker the local people and tourists can use (the renovated) Cacapon. Visitors eat, sleep, play golf, and spend money at local businesses. I think that's what it's all about."

Tomblin thought this was a good time. "We have the best credit rating in years, so we can get more bang for our buck."

He said the state's rating is AA+, better than many states in the current economy. The bond sale will bring in funds right away. Then, $3 million will be set aside each year for 30 years from excess video lottery revenues to pay off the bond debt.

The park is one of West Virginia's original state parks, constructed during the Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps (C.C.C.) and opened July 1, 1937. It recently celebrated its 75th anniversary. The name "cacapon" is a derivative of the Shawnee word meaning "medicine waters." The park sits at the base of Cacapon Mountain, the highest peak in the eastern portion of the state at 2,300 feet.

The lodge is 50 years old. The renovation plan calls for a 67,000-square foot addition with 82 new guest rooms, a public dining room, updated commercial kitchen and more conference rooms. Plans include a new indoor/outdoor pool, a spa and fitness center and upgrades to the Robert Trent Jones, Sr.-designed golf course, which is considered one of the finest in the East.

Members of the Legislature's Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Sub-committee toured Cacapon and Berkeley Springs State Park this week.

All hoped the project would boost the local and state economy.

Del. Daryl Cowles, R-Morgan, said, "I'm excited about what it means for the local economy."

Commissioner Brad Close said, "I've been playing golf at Cacapon for 28 years. I appreciate the opportunity to play many more years, and take my son or daughter. In years to come, we'll see a tremendous return on the investment.

Officials said all groups involved worked hard together for the betterment of the county and state.

"I had a wonderful time here," said House Majority Leader Brent Boggs, D-Braxton. "The folks are wonderful. I'm proud for the folks in Morgan, but also of our legislature and governor."

Cacapon Resort State Park Foundation President Jim Michael said it had been a six-year process, with former Governor Joe Manchin and Governor Tomblin. "We have a great foundation here, and a great working relationship with the House, Senate and Governor's office."

Tomblin added, "Let's continue to work together to make West Virginia the greatest place on Earth."